IBIA announces a strategic leadership transition as Adrian Tolson takes the helm as Chair of the Board of Directors. Effective 1 April 2026, the new global executive team will spearhead marine energy standards and decarbonization initiatives across the maritime value chain.
London | April 1, 2026 – The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA), the definitive global voice for the marine energy value chain, has officially announced its new Board of Directors and executive leadership team. Effective 1 April 2026, the appointment marks a strategic pivot for the Association as it navigates a period of unprecedented regulatory shifts and the accelerating transition toward low and zero-carbon fuels.
Taking the helm as Chair is Adrian Tolson, owner of 2050 Marine Energy LLC. Tolson, a widely respected veteran with over 35 years in the maritime sector, succeeds Constantinos Capetanakis, who transitions to the role of Immediate Past Chair.
Experience Meets Innovation
The newly elected leadership team brings together a formidable blend of technical expertise, operational history, and entrepreneurial vision.
Chair: Adrian Tolson (2050 Marine Energy LLC)
As one of the industry’s most prominent marine energy experts, Tolson’s deep insight into the bunker supply chain and infrastructure development is expected to be a cornerstone of IBIA’s strategy over the coming years. His career has focused on the evolution of fuel markets, making him uniquely qualified to lead the Association through the “multifuel” era.
Vice Chair: Jeroen de Vos (Peninsula)
Currently the Head of Global Operations at Peninsula, de Vos’s career trajectory is rooted in technical excellence. A former marine engineer with the Royal Dutch Navy, he served as Global Technical Director at VPS before joining Peninsula in 2019. His ongoing contributions to ISO 8217 groups ensure that fuel quality and technical standards remain at the forefront of IBIA’s agenda.
Hon. Treasurer: Mustafa Aslan (Asmira Group)
Mustafa Aslan, Chairman of the Asmira Group, takes on the responsibility of Treasurer. An economist by training with an MBA from the Izmir University of Economics, Aslan founded the Asmira Group in 2001. Beyond his family business, he holds significant influence as a board member of the Turkish Chamber of Shipping and TurkCham Montenegro.
A Transition of Resilience
In his inaugural statement as Chair, Adrian Tolson acknowledged the gravity of the current maritime landscape, blending a pragmatic view of market volatility with a commitment to the Association’s mission.
“I approach the role of IBIA Chair with both caution and optimism at a time when the bunkering community, alongside the wider shipping industry, is facing disruption and risk on multiple fronts,” Tolson stated. “Ours is a resilient and adaptable sector, and IBIA has a crucial role to play in navigating this period.”
Tolson also paid tribute to the outgoing leadership, noting the importance of continuity in an era of change:
“I thank my predecessor, Constantinos Capetanakis, for his efforts in building a sound foundation of both professionalism and excellence within IBIA. This legacy will be invaluable as we address current challenges and continue to expand the breadth of our membership across the bunker value chain.”
The 2026 Board of Directors
The election also sees the introduction of new voices to the board alongside seasoned industry veterans, ensuring a global representation that spans from Monaco to Singapore.
Newly Elected Board Members:
- Gianmichele Campanella, Fratelli Cosulich Monaco Sam
- Calvin Chung, CPN (Chimbusco Pan Nation), Singapore
Continuing Board Members:
- Claudia Beumer, C4 fuel B.V.
- Constantinos Capetanakis, Star Bulk (Immediate Past Chair)
- Nigel Draffin, Consultant and Lecturer
- Ufuk Erinc, Unerco Petrol Urn. Denizcilik ve Tic. A.S.
- Deanna MacDonald, Aveera Energy
- Valeria Sessa, Reseaworld
The Road to Decarbonization
Founded in 1993, IBIA represents a diverse membership across more than 70 countries, including fuel suppliers, shipowners, and port authorities. As the industry moves closer to the IMO’s 2030 and 2050 decarbonization targets, the new board’s primary mandate will be to advocate for transparency and high standards in marine fuel operations.
Through its consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), IBIA remains the primary bridge between policymakers and the practical realities of the bunker wharf. The appointment of this new leadership team signals a reinforced commitment to driving “safe, sustainable, and practical solutions” for the future of global marine energy.
IBIA in Brief
The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) is the authoritative voice of the global bunker industry, representing all sectors and stakeholders across the marine fuels value chain.
- Founded: 1993
- Membership: Shipowners, charterers, bunker suppliers, traders, brokers, ports, regulators, service providers, and marine energy industry stakeholders worldwide.
- Mission & Role:
- Foster collaboration and professionalism across the industry
- Promote education and best practices
- Uphold high standards of conduct
- Provide a platform for discussion, guidance, and advocacy
- Engagement: Actively participates with other industry bodies, national and international policymakers, and legislators, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), where IBIA holds consultative NGO status
- Global Forum: Offers a comprehensive platform to address challenges and opportunities in the bunker industry, ensuring the industry’s voice influences the future of marine fuels and maritime regulation
- Offices: UK, South Africa, Singapore
Source: IBIA – International Bunker Industry Association